Lower Arm

Lower Arm

Removal

CAUTION: Suspension fasteners are critical parts because they affect the performance of vital components and systems and their failure can result in major service expense. A new part with the same part number must be installed if installation is necessary. Do not use a new part of lesser quality or substitute design. Torque values must be used as specified during reassembly to make sure of correct retention of these parts.

NOTE: The lower arm bushings are not serviced separately from the lower suspension arm. If the bushings require service, a new lower arm must be installed.





1. With the vehicle in a static, level ground position, remove the hub cap and measure the distance from the center of the hub to the lip of the fender (curb height).
2. With the vehicle in NEUTRAL, position it on a hoist.
3. Remove the rear brake disc.
4. Remove and discard the shock absorber lower bolt and disconnect the shock absorber and spring assembly from the lower arm.

5. CAUTION: Do not use air tools to remove the nut. Damage to the boot can result.

NOTE: Use the hex-holding feature to prevent the stabilizer bar link ball Joint from turning while removing the stabilizer bar link nut.

Remove and discard the stabilizer bar link lower nut and disconnect the stabilizer bar link.
6. Remove and discard the lower arm-to-wheel knuckle bolt and disconnect the lower arm.
7. Remove and discard the lower arm-to-subframe bolts and remove the lower arm.

Installation

CAUTION: Do not tighten the lower arm-to-subframe fasteners until the suspension is at curb height. Failure to do so can cause severe damage to the bushings resulting in poor ride quality and handling.

1. Position the lower arm onto the subframe and install new lower arm-to-subframe bolts and nuts. Do not tighten at this time.
2. Connect the lower arm to the wheel knuckle. Install a new lower arm-to-wheel knuckle nut and bolt.
^ Tighten to 150 Nm (111 ft. lbs.).

3. CAUTION: Do not use air tools to install the nut. Damage to the boot can result.

NOTE: Use the hex-holding feature to prevent the stabilizer bar link ball joint from turning while installing the nut on the stabilizer bar link. Tighten the nut to specification using a socket and a torque wrench.

Connect the stabilizer bar link to the lower arm. Install a new stabilizer bar link lower nut.
^ Tighten to 48 Nm (35 ft. lbs.).

4. Position the shock absorber and spring assembly onto the lower arm. Install a new shock absorber lower bolt.
^ Tighten to 133 Nm (98 ft. lbs.).





5. Position a jack stand under the lower arm and raise the suspension until the measurement between the center of the hub and the lip of the fender is equal to the measurement taken in Removal, Step 1 (curb height).
6. Tighten the lower arm-to-subframe rear bolt. Tighten the lower arm-to-subframe front nut.
^ Tighten to 175 Nm (129 ft. lbs.).

7. Lower the suspension and remove the jack stand.
8. Install the rear brake disc.